How to Separate the Components of Ink

By Anna Tiner; Updated April 24, 2017

Ink chromatography, the process of separating ink, is a simple science experiment commonly found in K-12 science curricula. It can be useful in identifying unknown solutions as well. Through the submersion of chromatography paper into water, any sample of ink can be separated into its respective cyan, magenta, and yellow components. The water causes the ink molecules to "travel" up the paper strip. Depending on the mass of the molecule, various pigments will travel faster than others, causing the separation.

Cut the chromatography paper into sections measuring 12 cm by 2 cm if you do not have access to pre-made strips.

Draw a pencil line across the strip 2 cm from the bottom.

Dot a small, concentrated circle of ink on the center of the line.

Pierce the base of the cork stopper with the paper clip. Attach the other end of the clip to the paper strip by piercing a hole through the end opposite of the pencil line.

Fill the test tube with enough water to submerge the end of the strip without touching the pencil line or ink dot.

Place the cork in the test tube with the strip hanging down.

Remove the strip and place it on a flat surface. The ink will have separated into various pigments.

Tip

If your ink does not separate, it may be a pure dye or alcohol-soluble.

Things Needed

Chromatography paper or strips

Pens, markers, or another source ink

Test tube

Cork stopper

Paper clip

Pencil

Water

References

About the Author

Anna Tiner has worked in graphic design and writes on various topics, specializing in art, crafts and video games. She is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara.